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Pool Filter

There are three main types of pool filters. Diatomaceous Earth, or D.E., sand and cartridge systems. They differ in quality, DE is considered the best, but many systems run a combination of the three. The most important thing to consider when choosing a filter is the size of pool. Many older pools were built with filters that were much too small even then, and often are barely running now.

Sand pool filters use fine grain sand that traps particles inside of it. As more dirt and particles are trapped a sand filter actually increases in efficiency, trapping even more particles. Eventually it will become so dense that the pressure increases, or altogether stops and the filter must be backwashed and removed of build up. Sand can calcify with certain waters or become muddied or channeled which greatly affects its ability to operate correctly. To have clear water, there must be circulation, filtration and sanitation.

A D.E. pool filter traps more particles than a sand filter. It can trap particles that are so small they are difficult to see in a microscope, let alone by the naked eye. The powder filled in these filters is made of microscopic skeletons of diatoms, an ancient aquatic creature. Magnified greatly, these skeletons look just like sponges. It’s inside these holes that dirt is trapped. Pressure can also become a problem with these filters, and they must be periodically backwashed.

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